The best 7 Surrealism books

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Surrealism Books: South of the Border, West of the Sun by Haruki Murakami, Philip Gabriel

South of the Border, West of the Sun

Haruki Murakami, Philip Gabriel

What's South of the Border, West of the Sun about?

South of the Border, West of the Sun is a novel by Haruki Murakami that delves into the complexities of love, loss, and the choices we make. It follows the life of Hajime, a successful businessman who is reunited with a childhood friend, Shimamoto. As they rekindle their friendship, Hajime is forced to confront the consequences of his past actions and the unfulfilled desires of his heart.

Who should read South of the Border, West of the Sun?

  • Readers who enjoy introspective and atmospheric novels

  • Those interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships and emotions

  • Individuals who appreciate lyrical prose and evocative storytelling


What's The Complete Stories of Leonora Carrington about?

The Complete Stories of Leonora Carrington showcases the surreal and fantastical tales of the renowned artist and writer. From magical transformations to eerie encounters, Carrington's stories transport readers to otherworldly realms filled with mystery and imagination. Each story is a unique blend of the bizarre and the beautiful, inviting readers to explore the depths of their own creativity.

Who should read The Complete Stories of Leonora Carrington?

  • Readers who enjoy surreal and imaginative storytelling

  • Art enthusiasts curious about the intersection of visual art and literature

  • Those interested in exploring the themes of identity, transformation, and the subconscious mind


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Surrealism Books: In Watermelon Sugar by Richard Brautigan

In Watermelon Sugar

Richard Brautigan

What's In Watermelon Sugar about?

In Watermelon Sugar is a surreal and poetic novel by Richard Brautigan. Set in a commune called iDEATH, the story explores themes of love, memory, and the conflict between nature and technology. Through beautiful prose and unique characters, Brautigan creates a thought-provoking and hauntingly beautiful meditation on the human experience.

Who should read In Watermelon Sugar?

  • Readers who enjoy poetic and lyrical writing

  • Those interested in exploring a unique and imaginative fictional world

  • Individuals who appreciate stories that blend elements of fantasy and reality


4
Surrealism Books: The Third Policeman by Flann O'Brien

The Third Policeman

Flann O'Brien

What's The Third Policeman about?

The Third Policeman is a surreal and darkly humorous novel that delves into themes of identity, reality, and the nature of existence. Written by Irish author Flann O'Brien, the story follows an unnamed protagonist as he navigates a bizarre and absurd world filled with eccentric characters and strange occurrences. Blurring the lines between fantasy and reality, the book challenges the reader to question their own perceptions of the world.

Who should read The Third Policeman?

  • Readers who enjoy surreal and absurdist fiction

  • Those interested in philosophical explorations of reality and existence

  • People who appreciate dark humor and unconventional storytelling


What's Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World about?

Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World is a mind-bending novel by Haruki Murakami that delves into the realms of consciousness and identity. Set in parallel worlds, it follows a data processor who finds himself caught in a sinister plot, and a man who enters a strange, isolated town where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur. With its unique blend of mystery, science fiction, and philosophical exploration, this book will leave you questioning the nature of existence.

Who should read Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World?

  • Readers who enjoy surreal and thought-provoking narratives

  • Those interested in exploring the complexities of human consciousness

  • Individuals who appreciate unique and unconventional storytelling


What's The Secret Life of Salvador Dalí about?

The Secret Life of Salvador Dalí is an autobiography by the renowned surrealist artist himself. In this book, Dalí takes us on a journey through his life, sharing intimate details about his childhood, artistic inspirations, and the development of his unique style. Filled with eccentricity and wit, Dalí's memoir offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.

Who should read The Secret Life of Salvador Dalí?

  • Art enthusiasts who want to gain a deeper understanding of Salvador Dalí's life and work

  • People curious about the inner workings of a creative genius

  • Readers interested in Surrealism and the art movements of the 20th century


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Surrealism Books: Invisible Cities by Italo Calvino

Invisible Cities

Italo Calvino

What's Invisible Cities about?

Invisible Cities by Italo Calvino is a mesmerizing work of fiction that takes the reader on a journey through imaginary cities described by the explorer Marco Polo to the emperor Kublai Khan. Each city is a reflection of human experiences, desires, and dreams, and as the book unfolds, it challenges our perceptions of reality and the power of storytelling.

Who should read Invisible Cities?

  • Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and philosophical literature

  • Those with an interest in exploring the concept of cities and urban landscapes

  • People who appreciate lyrical and imaginative writing


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Surrealism Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Surrealism book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard South of the Border, West of the Sun as the ultimate read on Surrealism.

What are the Top 10 Surrealism books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • South of the Border, West of the Sun by Haruki Murakami, Philip Gabriel
  • The Complete Stories of Leonora Carrington by Leonora Carrington
  • In Watermelon Sugar by Richard Brautigan
  • The Third Policeman by Flann O'Brien
  • Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World by Haruki Murakami
  • The Secret Life of Salvador Dalí by Salvador Dali
  • Invisible Cities by Italo Calvino

Who are the top Surrealism book authors?

When it comes to Surrealism, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Haruki Murakami, Philip Gabriel
  • Leonora Carrington
  • Richard Brautigan
  • Flann O'Brien
  • Haruki Murakami